Residents of Aruo expressed concern that they might be left out after East Turkana MP Nicholas Ngikor said that employment opportunities would be a priority for those who live in close proximity to drilling sites. «I am from the Katili District, which is far from the South Lokichar River basin. We need leaders who will ensure that the five percent distribution benefits us as well, given that we were previously part of the South Turkana constituency», said local resident Peter Nakauron.
Lokichar County representative Samvel Lomodo noted that there is a lack of transparency regarding employment and public participation in the development guidelines provided by Gulf Energy. However, he acknowledged that some politicians incite hostility between the communities of Eastern and Southern Turkana for personal gain. «Oil-related development should unite citizens and ensure equality. Some leaders divide society for political purposes», Lomodo said.
The Lohakula and Kohodin Scientists Association, led by Samvel Ariong, also criticized politicians for exploiting social vulnerability to gain personal benefits from the oil project. «We will make sure that scientists from villages located near the drilling sites come together. This will help them get jobs and participate in tenders, while improving their living conditions and contributing to development» said Mr. Ariong.
Ali Lokiru, a former MP from Turkana, accused some politicians of supporting their colleagues in relation to the project. «Some current leaders are using their position to distract local residents and political rivals from important issues related to oil exploration. We want the new investor to be transparent in his interaction with the community», said Mr. Lokiru. In addition, disputes over land ownership and the historical political rivalry between former Governor Joseph Nanok and former Cabinet Secretary John Munez were cited as major obstacles to the success of the Turkana oil project.
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